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Model-year record

2012 Volkswagen Beetle
Image: Wikimedia Commons contributor · See source file

2012 Volkswagen Beetle

See the complaints, recalls, crash rating, and fuel economy in the public record. Then check the mileage and history of the car you found.

This page shows records, not a buy or avoid call.

The same model year can include a well-kept car and a neglected one. Use these records to plan what to check. Use the specific-car check when you know the mileage.

Complaints filed

65

Reports to NHTSA, 2012

Safety recalls

7

NHTSA campaigns on record

NHTSA crash test

Overall NCAP rating

Combined MPG

25

EPA estimate

Known issues

Air Bags issues lead owner complaints (18% of 65 reports), followed by electrical system (17%).

Air Bags18% · 12 reports
Electrical System17% · 11 reports
Steering11% · 7 reports
Visibility/Wiper11% · 7 reports
Visibility9% · 6 reports
Unknown Or Other8% · 5 reports
Engine6% · 4 reports
Structure5% · 3 reports

+ 7 more component categories with fewer reports.

Share of all 65 NHTSA complaints for this model year, grouped by the component owners named. Bars are scaled to the largest category. Examples: ODI 11155981, ODI 11054966, ODI 11445818, ODI 11433397, ODI 11430152.

Individual complaint reports(65)

Showing the 50 most recent reports
Vehicle Speed ControlFeb 2026 · ODI 11715470Details +

What component or system failed or malfunctioned, and is it available for inspection upon request? The accelerator pedal snapped/broke while driving the vehicle. Yes, it is available for inspection. How was your safety or the safety of others put at risk? I was not able to control the speed of the vehicle while driving. Has the problem been reproduced or confirmed by a dealer or independent service center? No, not yet. I am trying to get it scheduled for VW service. Has the vehicle or component been inspected by the manufacturer, police, insurance representatives or others? No. Were there any warning lamps, messages or other symptoms of the problem prior to the failure, and when did they first appear? No. The gas pedal (accelerator) snapped while I was driving my 2012 VW Beetle today. I was not able to control the speed of the vehicle.

Reported
Feb 2026
Incident date
Feb 2026
Mileage
Not provided
Outcome flags
None reported
Open ODI 11715470 at NHTSA →
Unknown Or OtherAug 2022 · ODI 11477281Details +

After getting in my car and turning on the ignition, I put my foot on the brake. After pulling the gear shift out of park and as I am taking my foot off the brake pedal, sometimes the car would jump a little as if has a glitch in the shifting from park to the next gear.

Reported
Aug 2022
Incident date
Jul 2022
Mileage
Not provided
Outcome flags
None reported
Open ODI 11477281 at NHTSA →
EngineJul 2022 · ODI 11476778Details +

Volkswagen water pumps keeps failing. I had the first water pump fail at 61902 miles replaced on 22 Mar 2017. I then had to have another Volkswagen water pump put in my car replaced by a Volkswagen dealership at 82,229 miles on 4 Jan 2019. I am now back at the Volkswagen dealer for yet another new water pump for my car at 108000. These Volkswagen water pumps should not be failing like they are and unfortunately I have found no 3rd party water pump to install in my make and model of car to try to avoid these numerous breakdowns. Not only are the numerous water pump failures expensive to replace, I am afraid the failure of these Volkswagen water pumps may lead to a catastrophic engine failure. Unfortunately, the failure of these Volkswagen water pumps are posted all over the internet.

Reported
Jul 2022
Incident date
Jul 2022
Mileage
Not provided
Outcome flags
None reported
Open ODI 11476778 at NHTSA →
Exterior LightingJul 2022 · ODI 11472612Details +

PURCHASED THIS VEHICLE ON 05/19/ 2022 NO PRIOR ISSUES ALL SERVICE REQUIRMENTS COMPLETED FROM PRIOR CORPORATE OWNED COMPANY. SINCE MY PURCHASE BOTH HEADLIGHTS HAVE SPORADICALLY FALLEN OUT OF THEIR BRACKETS WHILE I'M DRIVING LEADING TO LOSS OF VISIBILTY DURING THE DAYTIME AND NIGHTIME. FIRST INCIDENT OCCURING ON 05/20/2022 AND THE SECOND INCIDENT OCCURING 07/05/2022. MAJOR SAFETY ISSUE AND CONCERN. NO SAFETY WARNINGS OR LIGHTS CAME ON ONCE THESE INCIDENTS TOOK PLACE.THIS HAS LEAD TO THE HEADLIGHTS BEING DAMAGED AND DENTS PLACED ON THE EXTERIOR OVER MY BEETLE WHEN THERE WAS NO PRIOR DAMAGE.

Reported
Jul 2022
Incident date
May 2022
Mileage
Not provided
Outcome flags
None reported
Open ODI 11472612 at NHTSA →
Air BagsJan 2022 · ODI 11445818Details +

Airbag replacement not available through Volkswagen after several months.

Reported
Jan 2022
Incident date
Sep 2021
Mileage
Not provided
Outcome flags
None reported
Open ODI 11445818 at NHTSA →
Air BagsSep 2021 · ODI 11433397Details +

I received a recall notification dated Dec. 16, 2020 for my 2012 Volkswagen Beetle. The notification was for a replacement of the driver's side airbag which could explode due to high temperature or humidity. These condition exist on the Big Island of Hawaii where the car is located, but there are no VW dealerships on the Island of Hawaii. There are VW agencies on the islands of Oahu and Maui. I have been in contact with VW Customer Service. I receive regular call backs from a representative named Patrick. He has informed me that VW is still working to solve the problem. He once mentioned that perhaps the parts could be shipped to a another make of car dealership, but no action has been taken. I believe that my wait for a resolution to this recall has exceeded a reasonable amount of time. I am in fear of injury while driving my car.

Reported
Sep 2021
Incident date
Dec 2020
Mileage
Not provided
Outcome flags
None reported
Open ODI 11433397 at NHTSA →
Air BagsAug 2021 · ODI 11430152Details +

Takata recall. The contact owns a 2012 Volkswagen Beetle. The contact received notification of NHTSA campaign number: 20V785000 (Air Bags) however, the part to do the recall repair was not yet available. The contact stated that the manufacturer had exceeded a reasonable amount of time for the recall repair. The local dealer and the manufacturer were made aware of the issue. The contact had not experienced a failure. Parts distribution disconnect.

Reported
Aug 2021
Incident date
May 2021
Mileage
Not provided
Outcome flags
None reported
Open ODI 11430152 at NHTSA →
Air BagsJun 2021 · ODI 11420996Details +

Takata recall. The contact owns a 2013 Volkswagen Beetle. The contact received a notification for NHTSA Campaign Number: 20V785000 (Air Bags) however, the part to do the recall repair was not yet available. The dealer had been notified about the recall however, the contact was informed that parts were not yet available. The manufacturer was made aware of the issue. The contact stated that the manufacturer had exceeded a reasonable amount of time for the recall repair. The contact had not experienced a failure. Parts distribution disconnect.

Reported
Jun 2021
Incident date
Feb 2021
Mileage
Not provided
Outcome flags
None reported
Open ODI 11420996 at NHTSA →
Air BagsApr 2021 · ODI 11407487Details +

THE CONTACT'S DAUGHTER OWNS A 2012 VOLKSWAGEN BEETLE. THE CONTACT RECEIVED NOTIFICATION OF NHTSA CAMPAIGN NUMBER: 20V785000 (AIR BAGS) HOWEVER, THE PART TO DO THE RECALL REPAIR WAS UNAVAILABLE. A DEALER WAS NOT CONTACTED. THE CONTACT STATED THAT THE MANUFACTURER EXCEEDED A REASONABLE AMOUNT OF TIME FOR THE RECALL REPAIR. THE MANUFACTURER WAS MADE AWARE OF THE ISSUE. THE CONTACT HAD NOT EXPERIENCED A FAILURE. VIN TOOL CONFIRMS PARTS NOT AVAILABLE.

Reported
Apr 2021
Incident date
Feb 2021
Mileage
Not provided
Outcome flags
None reported
Open ODI 11407487 at NHTSA →
StructureMar 2021 · ODI 11405215Details +

THE PLASTIC PART ON THE TOP AROUND THE MOON ROOF HAS COMPLETELY CRACKED ON ALL 4 CORNERS, NOT JUST HAIRLINE CRACKS, BUT COMPLETELY CRACKED APART EDGE TO EDGE, ENOUGH TO FIT A CREDIT CARD IN. THIS CAR HAS ALWAYS BEEN GARAGE KEPT, RARELY DRIVEN EXCEPT ON NICE DAYS, I DON'T EVEN DRIVE IT ON RAINY DAYS & RARELY AT ALL IN THE WINTER. (NOW I WOULD BE AFRAID TO DRIVE IN THE RAIN BECAUSE IT MIGHT START LEAKING) I NOTICED IT HAD A HAIRLINE CRACK LAST YR ON 2 CORNERS BUT PREVIOUSLY WHEN WASHING IT I REALIZED ALL 4 SIDES ARE NOW COMPLETELY CRACKED APART. I BOUGHT IT 6 YRS AGO & IT HAD 21,000 MILES ON IT & I HAVE ONLY PUT 19,000 MILES ON IT IN 6 YEARS. IT IS IN IMMACULATE CONDITION EXCEPT NOW IT HAS 4 BIG CRACKS ON ALL 4 CORNERS OF MOON ROOF.

Reported
Mar 2021
Incident date
Apr 2020
Mileage
Not provided
Outcome flags
None reported
Open ODI 11405215 at NHTSA →
Air BagsMar 2021 · ODI 11399379Details +

TL* TAKATA RECALL. THE CONTACT OWNS A 2012 VOLKSWAGEN BEETLE. THE CONTACT RECEIVED NOTIFICATION OF NHTSA CAMPAIGN NUMBER: 20V785000 (AIR BAGS) HOWEVER, THE PART TO DO THE RECALL REPAIR WAS UNAVAILABLE. THE CONTACT STATED THAT THE MANUFACTURER HAD EXCEEDED A REASONABLE AMOUNT OF TIME FOR THE RECALL REPAIR. THE MANUFACTURER WAS MADE AWARE OF THE ISSUE. THE CONTACT HAD NOT EXPERIENCED A FAILURE. VIN TOOL CONFIRMS PARTS NOT AVAILABLE.

Reported
Mar 2021
Incident date
Feb 2021
Mileage
Not provided
Outcome flags
None reported
Open ODI 11399379 at NHTSA →
Air BagsFeb 2021 · ODI 11397897Details +

TL* TAKATA RECALL. THE CONTACT'S DAUGHTER OWNS A 2012 VOLKSWAGEN BEETLE. THE CONTACT RECEIVED NOTIFICATION OF NHTSA CAMPAIGN NUMBER: 20V785000 (AIR BAGS) HOWEVER, THE PART TO DO THE RECALL REPAIR WAS UNAVAILABLE. A DEALER WAS NOT CONTACTED. THE CONTACT STATED THAT THE MANUFACTURER EXCEEDED A REASONABLE AMOUNT OF TIME FOR THE RECALL REPAIR. THE MANUFACTURER WAS MADE AWARE OF THE ISSUE. THE CONTACT HAD NOT EXPERIENCED A FAILURE. VIN TOOL CONFIRMS PARTS NOT AVAILABLE.

Reported
Feb 2021
Incident date
Feb 2021
Mileage
Not provided
Outcome flags
None reported
Open ODI 11397897 at NHTSA →
Air BagsFeb 2021 · ODI 11396767Details +

TL* TAKATA RECALL. THE CONTACT OWNS A 2012 VOLKSWAGEN BEETLE. THE CONTACT RECEIVED NOTIFICATION OF NHTSA CAMPAIGN NUMBER: 20V785000 (AIRBAGS) HOWEVER, THE PART TO DO THE RECALL REPAIR WAS UNAVAILABLE. A DEALER WAS NOT CONTACTED. THE CONTACT STATED THAT THE MANUFACTURER HAD EXCEEDED A REASONABLE AMOUNT OF TIME FOR THE RECALL REPAIR. THE MANUFACTURER WAS MADE AWARE OF THE ISSUE. THE CONTACT HAD NOT EXPERIENCED A FAILURE. VIN TOOL CONFIRMS PARTS NOT AVAILABLE.

Reported
Feb 2021
Incident date
Feb 2021
Mileage
Not provided
Outcome flags
None reported
Open ODI 11396767 at NHTSA →
Air BagsFeb 2021 · ODI 11396802Details +

TL* THE CONTACT OWNS A 2012 VOLKSWAGEN BEETLE. THE CONTACT RECEIVED NOTIFICATION OF NHTSA CAMPAIGN NUMBER: 20V785000 (AIR BAGS) HOWEVER, THE PART TO DO THE RECALL REPAIR WAS NOT YET AVAILABLE. THE CONTACT STATED THAT THE MANUFACTURER HAD EXCEEDED A REASONABLE AMOUNT OF TIME FOR THE RECALL REPAIR. LOW COUNTRY VOLKSWAGEN (1001 JOHNNIE DODDS BLVD, MT PLEASANT, SC 29464) AND THE MANUFACTURER WERE MADE AWARE OF THE ISSUE. THE CONTACT HAD NOT EXPERIENCED A FAILURE. VIN TOOL CONFIRMS PARTS NOT AVAILABLE.

Reported
Feb 2021
Incident date
Feb 2021
Mileage
Not provided
Outcome flags
None reported
Open ODI 11396802 at NHTSA →
EngineNov 2020 · ODI 11374188Details +

ENGINE LIGHT FOR EVAP PURGE FLOW INCORRECT. I'VE SPENT OVER $700.00 AT THE DEALERSHIP AND MY ENGINE LIGHT STILL COMES ON WITH THE SAME ERROR CODE.P0441. THANKFULLY I HAVE FIXED PLUGGED IN AND I CAN TURN OFF THE ENGINE LIGHT ONLY TO HAVE IT COME ON AGAIN EVERY 25 TO 50 MILES OF DRIVING. ???? THE PURGE SOLENOID, AIR PUMP, PURGE VALVE HAVE BEEN REPLACED. NO CHANGE.

Reported
Nov 2020
Incident date
Nov 2020
Mileage
Not provided
Outcome flags
None reported
Open ODI 11374188 at NHTSA →
SteeringAug 2020 · ODI 11350776 · crash · 1 injuriesDetails +

WHILE THE CAR WAS IN MOTION THE STEERING LOCKED UP, PREVENTING ANY KIND OF TURNING OF THE STEERING WHEEL, CAUSING A CATOSROPHIC CRASH INJURING THE DRIVER ON A CITY STREET.

Reported
Aug 2020
Incident date
Aug 2020
Mileage
Not provided
Outcome flags
Crash 1 injuries
Open ODI 11350776 at NHTSA →
SteeringMar 2020 · ODI 11317900Details +

WHILE TURNING OUT OF A DRIVEWAY I HEARD A BANG NOISE. IT WAS NIGHT AND AT THE TIME I DID NOT SEE WHAT WENT WRONG UNTIL AN INSPECTION LATER REMOVING THE DRIVER SIDE FRONT WHEEL. THE TOP OF THE STRUT SPRING BROKE. THE TOP OF A MCPHERSON STRUT IS A PIVOT FOR THE STEERING. THE CAR IS A 2012 WITH 86,000 MILES.

Reported
Mar 2020
Incident date
Feb 2020
Mileage
Not provided
Outcome flags
None reported
Open ODI 11317900 at NHTSA →
StructureFeb 2020 · ODI 11309791Details +

TL* THE CONTACT OWNS A 2012 VOLKSWAGEN BEETLE. THE CONTACT STATED THAT WHILE OPERATING THE VEHICLE THE FRONT DRIVER SIDE DOOR LATCH INDEPENDENTLY LOCKED AND UNLOCKED. EVENTUALLY THE INTERIOR DOOR LATCH FAILED AND THE DOOR FAILED TO CLOSE. THE CONTACT HAD TO MANEUVER THE DOOR LATCH TO SECURE THE DOOR. THE VEHICLE WAS TAKEN TO THE LOCAL DEALER DON JACOBS (66900 PETERS CREEK RD ROANOKE VA.) WHO INDICATED THAT THE DOOR LATCH NEEDED TO BE REPLACED.THE VEHICLE WAS NOT REPAIRED. THE MANUFACTURER WAS NOTIFIED OF THE FAILURE BUT NO ASSISTANCE WAS OFFERED. THE FAILURE MILEAGE WAS 80,000.

Reported
Feb 2020
Incident date
Feb 2018
Mileage
Not provided
Outcome flags
None reported
Open ODI 11309791 at NHTSA →
Power TrainFeb 2020 · ODI 11308172 · crashDetails +

2012 VOLKSWAGEN BEETLE. CONSUMER WRITES IN REGARDS TO GEAR SELECTOR SAFETY RECALL. *LD THE CONSUMER STATED THE VEHICLE WAS SET IN PARK, BUT ROLLED FORWARD INTO ANOTHER OF THE CONSUMER'S VEHICLES. THE CONSUMER STATED THERE WAS A RECALL, BUT WAS UNABLE TO HAVE THE VEHICLE REPAIRED.*JS

Reported
Feb 2020
Incident date
Feb 2020
Mileage
Not provided
Outcome flags
Crash
Open ODI 11308172 at NHTSA →
Electrical SystemOct 2019 · ODI 11267292Details +

TL* THE CONTACT OWNS A 2012 VOLKSWAGEN BEETLE. WHILE DRIVING VARIOUS SPEEDS, THE VEHICLE EXPERIENCED TOTAL ELECTRICAL FAILURE. THE CONTACT HAD TO RESTART THE VEHICLE TO RESUME NORMAL OPERATION. THERE WERE NO WARNING INDICATORS ILLUMINATED; HOWEVER, THE CONTACT HEARD A BEEPING SOUND PRIOR TO THE FAILURE. THE DEALER AND MANUFACTURER WERE NOT NOTIFIED OF THE FAILURE. THE VEHICLE WAS NOT DIAGNOSED OR REPAIRED. THE FAILURE MILEAGE WAS 60,000.

Reported
Oct 2019
Incident date
Oct 2019
Mileage
Not provided
Outcome flags
None reported
Open ODI 11267292 at NHTSA →
Unknown Or OtherMay 2019 · ODI 11210380Details +

THE TIMING TENSIONER BROKE CAUSING DAMAGE TO THE ENGINE. VOLKSWAGEN PAID FOR TIMING AND 60% OF ENGINE WORK. SHORTLY AFTER I NOTICED I NEEDED TO ADD OIL AND RIGHT AFTER AN OIL CHANGE THE OIL WOULD BE LOW. MEANWHILE THE OIL LIGHT NEVER CAME ON. NOW VOLKSWAGEN DEALERSHIP SAYS THE PVC IS BAD AND WHEN QUESTIONED ABOUT IT THEY CLAIM THEY NEVER TOUCHED THE PVC. I FIND THAT HARD TO BELIEVE SINCE THEY REPLACED THE UPPER PART OF MY ENGINE. THE ENGINE WAS FIXED DECEMBER OF 2018. I JUST TOOK IT TO THE DEALERSHIP TODAY. MAY 28, 2019.

Reported
May 2019
Incident date
May 2019
Mileage
Not provided
Outcome flags
None reported
Open ODI 11210380 at NHTSA →
Air BagsDec 2018 · ODI 11155981 · crash · 1 injuriesDetails +

TL* THE CONTACT OWNS A 2012 VOLKSWAGEN BEETLE. THE CONTACT STATED THAT THE INDEPENDENT DEALER WHO SOLD HER THE VEHICLE WAS UNABLE TO VERIFY IF THE VEHICLE WAS INCLUDED IN NHTSA CAMPAIGN NUMBER: 12V540000 (AIR BAGS). THE DEALER DID NOT PROVIDE THE RECALL HISTORY AND THE CONTACT HAD NOT CALLED A VOLKSWAGEN DEALER. THE CONTACT WAS CONCERNED ABOUT THE AIR BAGS WORKING PROPERLY. ON NOVEMBER 2, 2018, WHILE THE CONTACT WAS DRIVING 20 MPH, ANOTHER VEHICLE CUT IN FRONT OF THE CONTACT'S VEHICLE. THE CONTACT APPLIED THE BRAKE PEDAL, BUT REAR ENDED THE OTHER VEHICLE. NONE OF THE AIR BAGS DEPLOYED. A POLICE REPORT WAS FILED. THE CONTACT SUSTAINED HEAD AND BACK PAIN AND WAS TRANSPORTED BY AMBULANCE FOR MEDICAL TREATMENT. THE VEHICLE WAS TOWED TO A TOW YARD. THE VEHICLE WAS NOT DIAGNOSED BY A DEALER. THE MANUFACTURER WAS NOTIFIED OF THE CRASH. THE CAUSE OF THE FAILURE WAS NOT DETERMINED. THE FAILURE MILEAGE WAS NOT AVAILABLE.

Reported
Dec 2018
Incident date
Apr 2018
Mileage
Not provided
Outcome flags
Crash 1 injuries
Open ODI 11155981 at NHTSA →
Unknown Or OtherNov 2018 · ODI 11151473Details +

PURCHASED 2012 VW BEETLE IN 2014 USED AND SERVICE ENGINE LIGHT CAME ON 6SHORTLY AFTER. DEALER REPLACED SECONDARY AIR INJECTOR SENSOR UNDER WARRANTY. LIGHT CAME BACK ON AND WAS TOLD IT WAS A SECONDARY AIR INJECTOR VALVE THAT WAS BAD BUT WOULD NOT COVER DUE TO BEING OUT OF WARRANTY EVEN THOUGH ISSUE OCCURRED WHILE UNDER WARRANTY AND WAS NOT CORRECTED. LOCAL MECHANIC CLEANED VALVE AND CHECKED SYSTEM WHICH WORKED FOR 6 MONTHS. CONTINUED TO FAIL SAFETY INSPECTION FOR A P0491 SECONDARY AIR INJECTOR SYSTEM. HAS FAILED 2016 & 2017 FOR SAME CODE. HAVE HAD OVER $700 WORTH OF WORK TO CORRECT WITH NO FIX. 2017 HAD A P0106 CODE THAT CLEARED BUT HAS COME BACK AGAIN. CURRENTLY STILL PRODUCING BOTH CODES FOR 2018 AND NOT PASSING SAFETY INSPECTION.

Reported
Nov 2018
Incident date
Apr 2015
Mileage
Not provided
Outcome flags
None reported
Open ODI 11151473 at NHTSA →
SuspensionAug 2018 · ODI 11115072Details +

OVER THE PAST 6 MONTHS OR SO EVERY TIME I GO OVER ANY SORT OF BUMP IN THE ROAD I HEAR A CRACKING KIND OF NOISE. WHEN I GO OVER THE RAILROAD TRACKS IT SOUNDS AS IF MY CAR IS GOING TO CRACK..IT'S SO BAD I AM SO AFRAID TO DRIVE MY CAR HOWEVER I DO NEED TO DRIVE IT. VERY SCARY

Reported
Aug 2018
Incident date
Aug 2018
Mileage
Not provided
Outcome flags
None reported
Open ODI 11115072 at NHTSA →
StructureApr 2018 · ODI 11090115Details +

SUNROOF'S PLASTIC FRAME COVER DEVELOPED CRACK WIDE ENOUGH FOR CALLING CARD TO FIT INSIDE AN ALLOW WATER IN TO LEAK INOT HEADLINER ETC., PLUS SEVERAL HAIRLINE CRACKS HAVE FORMED. THE CLEARCOAT HAS WORN OFF THE SAME SURFACE AFTER 5.5 YEARS ON THIS SAME NON-METAL FRAME THAT SURROUNDS THE SUNROOF ABOUT A FINGER'S WIDTH WIDE AROUND MOST OF THE FRAME.

Reported
Apr 2018
Incident date
Apr 2018
Mileage
Not provided
Outcome flags
None reported
Open ODI 11090115 at NHTSA →
EngineMar 2018 · ODI 11080770Details +

PURCHASED THE 2012 VW TURBO BEETLE FROM CUTRUBUS OF LAYTON UTAH 801-544-5878 WITH $3,200 OF OWN MONEY..GOLDEN WEST CREDIT UNION LOAN $10,500.. CUTRUBUS HAS MAINTENANCE DEPARTMENT THAT INSPECTED AND EMESSIONED THE VEHICLE.. TOOK THE 2012 VEHICLE OFF THE LOT AND CAR STALED AND ENGINE LIGHT WENT ON.. TOOK IT TO MY PARENTS HOME WHICH AGING VETERAN PARENTS LIVE.. 2012 BEETLE ENGINE FAILED AND CAR WOULDN'T START OIL LEAKED ON DRIVE WAY AND PARENTS THREATENED HOUSING..TOWED CAR TO CUTRUBUS WITH A 24 HOUR TIME PERIOD AND ALEX CARE DEALER REFUSED TO PAY FOR TOWING..CALLED CUTRUBUS MAINTENANCE ASKED ABOUT 2012 BEETLED YELLED AT .GOLDEN WEST CREDIT UNION LOAN OFFICER STATED COULD CANCEL CHECK AND CALLED CUTRUBUS FINANCING AND WAS YELLED AT STATED HE WOULD CASH THE CHECK BECAUSE THE CONTRACT WAS SIGNED.. 2012 BEETLE TURBO IS ON CUTRUBUS LOT 03/01 24 HOURS AFTER PURCHASED CAR HAD BROKEN VACUM PUMP CERAMIC SEAL AND TUBING THAT HAD COME LOOSE AND OIL WAS LEAKING ENGINE LIGHT ON WHICH ALEX STATED WAS MINOR REPAIRS.. CHRISTINE IS NOT INSURED FOR 2012 BEETLE..AFTER ALL THIS THE FIANCE DEPARTMENT PURCHASED STATE TAXES AND LICENSING EVEN THOUGHT THE CAR DOES NOT BELONG TO CHRISTINE 20 12 VW BEETLE REMAINS ON CUTRUBUS OF LAYTON AUTO LOT.. MOTOR VEHICLE ENFORCEMENT DIVISION ACCEPTED TAX AND LICENCING MONEY EVEN THOUGHT 2012 VW REMAINS ON CUTRUBUS CAR LOT.. STATE TAX WAS FILED 03/18/2018.. CHRISTINE IS NOT PAYING CAR LOAN.. CUTRUBUS FINANCE DEPARTMENT IS REFUSING TO REFUND THE PAPER CASHIERS LOAN CHECK.. CUTRUBUS IS REFUSING TO SEND DOCUMENTED REPAIRS VIA EMAIL WWW.MVED.UTAH.GOV

Reported
Mar 2018
Incident date
Mar 2018
Mileage
Not provided
Outcome flags
None reported
Open ODI 11080770 at NHTSA →
Air BagsDec 2017 · ODI 11054966 · crash · 1 injuriesDetails +

TL* THE CONTACT OWNS A 2012 VOLKSWAGEN BEETLE. WHILE PARKED, THE CONTACT'S VEHICLE WAS REAR ENDED BY ANOTHER VEHICLE TRAVELING 15 MPH. THE AIR BAGS DID NOT DEPLOY. THE CONTACT SUSTAINED INJURIES TO THE NECK AND BACK THAT REQUIRED MEDICAL ATTENTION. A POLICE REPORT WAS NOT FILED. THE VEHICLE WAS NOT TOWED. THE VEHICLE WAS TAKEN TO AN INDEPENDENT MECHANIC FOR REPAIR. THE DEALER AND MANUFACTURER WERE NOT NOTIFIED. THE FAILURE MILEAGE WAS 52,000.

Reported
Dec 2017
Incident date
Feb 2017
Mileage
Not provided
Outcome flags
Crash 1 injuries
Open ODI 11054966 at NHTSA →
Electrical SystemOct 2017 · ODI 11031357Details +

KEY GETS CONSTANTLY GETS STUCK IN THE IGNITION WHEN TURNING THE CAR OFF. THE CAR IS IN PARK AND THE KEY STUCK.

Reported
Oct 2017
Incident date
Sep 2017
Mileage
Not provided
Outcome flags
None reported
Open ODI 11031357 at NHTSA →
Electrical SystemJul 2017 · ODI 11004203Details +

KEY GETS STUCK IN IGNITION WHEN TURNING OFF THE ENGINE.

Reported
Jul 2017
Incident date
Jul 2017
Mileage
Not provided
Outcome flags
None reported
Open ODI 11004203 at NHTSA →
Electronic Stability Control (ESC)Jul 2017 · ODI 11002958Details +

I WAS DRIVING AND THE EPC LIGHT CAME ON. AT THE DEALERSHIP I WAS TOLD THE CAR NEEDED A CARBON CLEANING WHICH IS A $900 JOB. BEING THAT MY CAR IS ONLY 5 YEARS OLD AND ONLY HAS 40K MILES I WAS SHOCKED. AFTER DOING RESEARCH AND TALKING TO THE DEALERSHIP I LEARNED THAT ALL 2012 BETTLES WITH THIS DIRECT FUEL INJECTION DESIGN HAVE THIS PROBLEM. IT IS SYSTEMATIC ISSUE WITHIN THE DESIGN OF THE FUEL INJECTION THAT CAUSES THE COILS TO FAIL AND THE CAR TO NEED A $900 CARBON CLEANING DONE EVERY FEW YEARS. HIGH GRADE GASOLINE OR/AND FUEL INJECTION CLEANER DOES NOT HELP. I CALLED THE VW AND THEY REFUSED TO DO ANYTHING ABOUT THIS PROBLEM.

Reported
Jul 2017
Incident date
Jun 2017
Mileage
Not provided
Outcome flags
None reported
Open ODI 11002958 at NHTSA →
Fuel/Propulsion SystemNov 2016 · ODI 10925139Details +

TL* THE CONTACT OWNS A 2012 VOLKSWAGEN BEETLE. WHILE THE VEHICLE WAS STATIONARY, FUEL LEAKED ONTO THE GROUND. THE VEHICLE WAS DIAGNOSED AS HAVING A LEAKY DETECTION PUMP. THE MANUFACTURER WAS MADE AWARE OF THE ISSUE. THE VIN WAS UNKNOWN. THE FAILURE MILEAGE WAS 110,000.

Reported
Nov 2016
Incident date
Nov 2016
Mileage
Not provided
Outcome flags
None reported
Open ODI 10925139 at NHTSA →
Air BagsOct 2016 · ODI 10913755Details +

TL* THE CONTACT OWNS A 2012 VOLKSWAGEN BEETLE. THE CONTACT STATED THAT THE AIR BAG WARNING INDICATOR ILLUMINATED. THE VEHICLE WAS TAKEN TO THE DEALER MULTIPLE TIMES WHERE THE AIR BAG SENSOR WAS REPAIRED; HOWEVER, EVERY FEW THOUSAND MILES, THE FAILURE RECURRED. THE FAILURE MILEAGE WAS 20,000.

Reported
Oct 2016
Incident date
Apr 2016
Mileage
Not provided
Outcome flags
None reported
Open ODI 10913755 at NHTSA →
EngineJul 2016 · ODI 10884570Details +

TL* THE CONTACT OWNS A 2012 VOLKSWAGEN BEETLE. THE CONTACT STATED THAT THE VEHICLE WAS TAKEN TO THE DEALER DUE TO THE CHECK ENGINE LIGHT ILLUMINATING. THE MECHANIC WAS ABLE TO RETRIEVE A FAULT CODE ON THE VEHICLE FOR THE EXHAUST CAMSHAFT. THE VEHICLE WAS NOT REPAIRED. ON ANOTHER OCCASION, WHILE ATTEMPTING TO START THE VEHICLE, THE VEHICLE FAILED TO START. THE VEHICLE WAS TOWED TO THE DEALER TO BE DIAGNOSED. THE CONTACT WAS INFORMED THAT THE EXHAUST CAMSHAFT FRACTURED AND CAUSED A BLOCKAGE OF THE EXHAUST FUEL LEAVING THE ENGINE. THE VEHICLE WAS NOT REPAIRED. THE CONTACT WAS INFORMED THAT THE VEHICLE WAS NO LONGER UNDER WARRANTY. THE CONTACT STATED THAT THE VEHICLE WAS UNDER WARRANTY WHEN THE CHECK ENGINE LIGHT WARNING ILLUMINATED; HOWEVER, THE DEALER FAILED TO REPAIR THE VEHICLE. THE MANUFACTURER WAS NOTIFIED OF THE FAILURE. THE APPROXIMATE FAILURE MILEAGE WAS 70,000.

Reported
Jul 2016
Incident date
Jan 2016
Mileage
Not provided
Outcome flags
None reported
Open ODI 10884570 at NHTSA →
Unknown Or OtherJul 2016 · ODI 10883378Details +

VEHICLE DIES WHILE DRIVING. HAS HAPPENED ON COUNTLESS OCCASIONS WHILE DRIVING STRAIGHT, TURNING, STOPPED AT LIGHT, ETC. NO WARNING. ENGINE COMPLETELY SHUTS OFF. MAJOR SAFETY HAZARD AS THIS HAS HAPPENED WHILE TURNING LEFT INTO ONCOMING TRAFFIC AND WHILE TRAVELING DOWN A ROAD AT 50 MPH WITH OTHER VEHICLES DOING THE SAME SPEED BEHIND ME. STARTED ABOUT 1 YEAR AGO AND HAVE BEEN TO THE DEALERSHIP MULTIPLE TIMES TRYING TO FIX. SO FAR THEY HAVE TRIED A COMPUTER RESET AND REPLACING THE CRANKSHAFT SENSOR, NEITHER HAVE WORKED. CAR IS CURRENTLY BACK IN THE DEALERSHIP FOR THE SECOND TIME IN A WEEK FOR THE SAME PROBLEM.

Reported
Jul 2016
Incident date
Aug 2015
Mileage
Not provided
Outcome flags
None reported
Open ODI 10883378 at NHTSA →
SteeringMar 2016 · ODI 10840219Details +

TL* THE CONTACT OWNS A 2012 VOLKSWAGEN BEETLE. WHILE DRIVING APPROXIMATELY 15 MPH, THE STEERING WHEEL MADE AN ABNORMAL NOISE WITHOUT WARNING. THE VEHICLE WAS TAKEN TO THE DEALER WHERE IT WAS DIAGNOSED THAT THE POWER STEERING RACK NEEDED TO BE REPLACED. THE VEHICLE WAS REPAIRED. THE VIN WAS UNKNOWN. THE APPROXIMATE FAILURE MILEAGE WAS 26,399. UPDATED 04/29/16*LJ *TR

Reported
Mar 2016
Incident date
Feb 2016
Mileage
Not provided
Outcome flags
None reported
Open ODI 10840219 at NHTSA →
SteeringSep 2015 · ODI 10763949Details +

TL* THE CONTACT OWNS A 2012 VOLKSWAGEN BEETLE. WHILE COMING TO A COMPLETE STOP AND PLACING THE VEHICLE INTO PARK, THE IGNITION AND STEERING WHEEL LOCKED UP. THE CONTACT ALSO STATED THAT IT WAS DIFFICULT TO START THE VEHICLE. THE DEALER DIAGNOSED THAT THE IGNITION AND STEERING TUMBLER LOCK NEEDED TO BE REPLACED. THE VEHICLE WAS NOT REPAIRED. THE MANUFACTURER WAS NOT NOTIFIED OF THE FAILURE. THE FAILURE MILEAGE WAS 88,000.

Reported
Sep 2015
Incident date
Sep 2012
Mileage
Not provided
Outcome flags
None reported
Open ODI 10763949 at NHTSA →
Visibility/WiperApr 2015 · ODI 10712433Details +

TL* THE CONTACT OWNS A 2012 VOLKSWAGEN BEETLE. THE CONTACT STATED THAT WHILE DRIVING AT 5 MPH AND ATTEMPTING TO ROLL THE FRONT DRIVER SIDE WINDOW UPWARDS, THE WINDOW INDEPENDENTLY ROLLED DOWNWARDS. THE VEHICLE WAS TAKEN TO A DEALER. THE TECHNICIAN DIAGNOSED THAT THE MOTOR NEEDED TO BE REPLACED. THE VEHICLE WAS NOT REPAIRED. THE MANUFACTURER WAS NOT NOTIFIED OF THE FAILURE. THE FAILURE MILEAGE WAS 34,000. THE VIN WAS UNAVAILABLE.

Reported
Apr 2015
Incident date
Jan 2014
Mileage
Not provided
Outcome flags
None reported
Open ODI 10712433 at NHTSA →
SuspensionJan 2015 · ODI 10670706Details +

TL- THE CONTACT OWNS A 2012 VOLKSWAGEN BEETLE. THE CONTACT STATED THAT WHILE DRIVING AT VARIOUS SPEEDS, THERE WAS AN ABNORMAL NOISE COMING FROM THE REAR OF THE VEHICLE. THE VIN WAS NOT INCLUDED IN NHTSA CAMPAIGN NUMBER: 14V656000 (SUSPENSION).THE VEHICLE WAS NOT DIAGNOSED OR REPAIRED. THE MANUFACTURER WAS MADE AWARE OF THE FAILURE. THE FAILURE MILEAGE WAS 30,000. DJR

Reported
Jan 2015
Incident date
Mar 2014
Mileage
Not provided
Outcome flags
None reported
Open ODI 10670706 at NHTSA →
Visibility/WiperSep 2014 · ODI 10631949Details +

9-3-14 GOT INTO VEHICLE THAT WAS PARKED IN MY GARAGE. FOUND HORIZONTAL CRACK RUNNING FROM BEHIND REAR VIEW MIRROR ABOUT 8" IN BOTH DIRECTIONS AND CURVING UP TO THE ROOF LINE. ADDITIONALLY THERE IS A VERTICLAL CRACK THAT INTERSECTS THE HORIZONTAL ONE AT IT RUNS DIRECTLY UP TO THE ROOF LINE. THERE WAS NO CONTACT WITH ANY OBJECT OR ROAD HAZZARD THAT CAUSED THIS AS THE VEHICLE WAS PARKED IN A CLOSED AND SECURED GARAGE. CONTACTED VW DEALER WHO ADVISED ME TO TAKE VEHICLE TO DEALERSHIP. ONCE THERE THE VEHICLE AND THE CRACKED WINDSHIELD WERE PHOTOGRAPHED BY DEALERSHIP PERSONNEL. I WAS INFORMED THAT A CLAIM WOULD BE SUBMITTED TO THE MANUFACTURER. ON 9-9-14 I WAS INFORMED THAT THE CLAIM HAD BEEN DENIED BY HE MAUFACTURER'S REPRESENTATIVE STATING THAT IT WAS THEIR OPINION THAT THE WINDSHIELD HAD BEEN CONTACTED BY SOME OBJECT. IT IS MY OPINION THAT THIS IS A STRESS FRACTURE AND THERE IS NO EVIDENCE THAT THE WINDSHIELD HAD BEEN STRUCK BY ANY OBJECT. *TR

Reported
Sep 2014
Incident date
Sep 2014
Mileage
Not provided
Outcome flags
None reported
Open ODI 10631949 at NHTSA →
Vehicle Speed ControlJul 2014 · ODI 10608203Details +

I HAVE ONLY OWNED THIS VEHICLE FOR UNDER A MONTH. NOTICEABLE LAG FROM DEAD START AS WELL AS LOW SPEEDS AND TRYING TO ACCELERATE. *TR

Reported
Jul 2014
Incident date
Jul 2014
Mileage
Not provided
Outcome flags
None reported
Open ODI 10608203 at NHTSA →
Visibility/WiperApr 2014 · ODI 10577041Details +

WINDSHIELD CRACKED BEHIND REAR VIEW MIRROR. STARTED AT THE TOP SEAM OF THE GLASS. WAS NOT HIT BY A ROCK. *TR

Reported
Apr 2014
Incident date
Mar 2014
Mileage
Not provided
Outcome flags
None reported
Open ODI 10577041 at NHTSA →
Visibility/WiperMar 2014 · ODI 10568312Details +

I WAS DRIVING ON THE HIGHWAY, GOING ABOUT 60MPH, WHEN I NOTICED A SLIGHT, HIGH PITCHED RATTLE. A COUPLE OF MINUTES LATER, WHILE STILL ON THE HIGHWAY, I NOTICED A CRACK IN THE WINDSHIELD RIGHT IN THE CENTER OF THE VEHICLE JUST BEHIND THE REARVIEW MIRROR. ONCE I GOT HOME I CHECKED IT OUT AND THE GLASS IS CRACKED STRAIGHT DOWN FROM THE CENTER OF THE CAR AND THEN SPLITS OFF LEFT AND RIGHT AT THE REARVIEW MIRROR. YOU CAN PHYSICALLY FEEL THE BREAK FROM THE OUTSIDE. *TR

Reported
Mar 2014
Incident date
Mar 2014
Mileage
Not provided
Outcome flags
None reported
Open ODI 10568312 at NHTSA →
SteeringJul 2013 · ODI 10532044Details +

THERE IS A HIGH PITCH WHISTLING NOISE IN THE STEERING SYSTEM. IT IS PRESENT WHEN THE VEHICLE IS SITTING STILL AND WHILE THE VEHICLE IS TRAVELING. THE NOISE ONLY INCREASES WHEN THE STEERING WHEEL IS MOVED BACK AND FORTH. IT IS AN INTERMITTENT SOUND. THE DEALERSHIP HAS REPLACED THE POWER STEERING PUMP TWICE AND THE SOUND DID NOT GO AWAY. THEY DROVE A BRAND NEW BUG AND TOLD US THAT ALL THE BUGS HAVE THE SAME NOISE. THE SOUND IS LIKE WHEN A WINDOW IS SLIGHTLY OPEN WHILE TRAVELING AT A HIGH RATE OF SPEED. *TR

Reported
Jul 2013
Incident date
Jul 2012
Mileage
Not provided
Outcome flags
None reported
Open ODI 10532044 at NHTSA →
VisibilityJul 2013 · ODI 10523940Details +

WINDSHIELD CRACK HORIZONTALLY FROM ROOFTOP DOWN IN TWO PLACES BEHIND REARVIEW MIRROR. *TR

Reported
Jul 2013
Incident date
Jul 2013
Mileage
Not provided
Outcome flags
None reported
Open ODI 10523940 at NHTSA →
VisibilityJun 2013 · ODI 10515161Details +

MY WINDSHIELD CRACKED ON ITS OWN WHILE DRIVING ON THE HIGHWAY AT A RATE OF 60MPH. THERE WERE NO CHIPS OR SPLITS FROM ROCKS. I HEARD A CRACKING NOISE AND WATCHED AS THE MY WINDSHIELD CRACKED FROM THE PASSENGER SIDE MIDWAY TO THE MIDDLE OF THE WINDOW. WHEN I PULLED OVER TO MAKE SURE MY CAR WAS SAFE TO DRIVE, I SAW THAT THE CRACK HAPPENED ON THE INTERIOR OF THE WINDOW. *TR

Reported
Jun 2013
Incident date
May 2013
Mileage
Not provided
Outcome flags
None reported
Open ODI 10515161 at NHTSA →
Visibility/WiperApr 2013 · ODI 10507078Details +

FRONT WINDOW BROKE WHEN PULLING INTO THE DRIVEWAY. NO VISIBLE ROCK CHIP, WINDOW JUST BROKE. *TR

Reported
Apr 2013
Incident date
Apr 2013
Mileage
Not provided
Outcome flags
None reported
Open ODI 10507078 at NHTSA →
Electrical SystemNov 2012 · ODI 10482930Details +

DRIVER SIDE WINDOW WOULD DROP ABOUT 1.5 CM WHEN EXIT THE VEHICLE BUT WOULD NOT GO BACK UP. WAS ALLOWING WATER AND OUTSIDE DEBRIS TO ENTER THE VEHICLE. WHEN I NOTIFIED THE DEALER AND MY SALESPERSON THEY SAID THEY WILL TAKE CARE OF IT AND CALL VW ON MY BEHALF. IT HAS BEEN MORE THAN A MONTH AND I HAVE HEARD NOTHING. SOME REVIEWS ONLINE SAID THEY WERE ABLE TO HAVE VW TAKE IT BACK/ BUY IT BACK. FRANKLY THIS WOULD BE THE BEST SOLUTION AS IN VA THE RAIN AND COLD WINDS IS JUST UNBEARABLE IN THE WINTER WITH THE WINDOW UNABLE TO OPERATE AS IT WAS DESIGNED TO. *TR

Reported
Nov 2012
Incident date
Sep 2012
Mileage
Not provided
Outcome flags
None reported
Open ODI 10482930 at NHTSA →
SteeringOct 2012 · ODI 10481270Details +

UNDER CERTAIN DAYTIME LIGHTING CONDITIONS SEVERAL OF THE DASH PANEL INSTRUMENTS (SPEEDOMETER, AND TACHOMETER) CAN NOT BE READ, SINCE THESE ARE NOT ILLUMINATED UNLESS THE HEADLIGHTS ARE ON. THERE ARE NO OPTIONS IN THE SUPPLIED CONTROLS TO TURN THESE DASH LIGHTS ON WITHOUT TURNING ON THE HEADLIGHTS. VW OF AMERICA HAS BEEN CONTACTED WITH REGARD TO THIS CONCERN AND HAS INDICATED THERE IS NOT 'FIX' FOR THIS CONDITION. MY WIFE AND I ARE VERY CONCERNED WITH THIS CONDITION. WE ARE PURSUING AN ALTERNATIVE LIGHTING ARRANGEMENT TO SOLVE THIS CONDITION. *TR

Reported
Oct 2012
Incident date
Sep 2012
Mileage
Not provided
Outcome flags
None reported
Open ODI 10481270 at NHTSA →
SteeringOct 2012 · ODI 10478063Details +

TL* THE CONTACT OWNS A 2013 VOLKSWAGEN BEETLE. THE CONTACT STATED THAT WHILE DRIVING 35 MPH, THE VEHICLE WOULD VEER TO THE RIGHT ABNORMALLY. THE VEHICLE WAS TAKEN TO THE DEALER WHO STATED THAT THERE WAS A PROBLEM WITH THE ALIGNMENT MACHINE. THE VEHICLE WAS NOT ALIGNED. THE MANUFACTURER WAS NOTIFIED OF THE ISSUE WHO ADVISED THAT THEY WOULD RESEARCH THE FAILURE AT A LATER DATE. THE VEHICLE WAS NOT REPAIRED. THE FAILURE MILEAGE WAS 13,000. ## VIN PASSED ## 2013 VOLKSWAGEN BEETLE ##

Reported
Oct 2012
Incident date
Aug 2012
Mileage
Not provided
Outcome flags
None reported
Open ODI 10478063 at NHTSA →
Electrical SystemSep 2012 · ODI 10477481Details +

I HAVE THREE CONCERNS ABOUT MY NEW CAR. FIRST AND FOREMOST IS THE WINDOW ISSUE. I HAD THE VX BEETLE FOR ABOUT TWO WEEKS WHEN THE AUTOMATIC WINDOWS ON BOTH DRIVER'S AND PASSENGER'S SIDES EITHER DO NOT GO UP OR DOWN ALL THE WAY AS THEY ARE SUPPOSED TO. THEY STOP INTERMITTENTLY AND TAKE SEVERAL TRIES TO EITHER CLOSE OR OPEN. SAFETY ISSUE. DEALER SAYS VX KNOWS AND IS WORKING ON FIX. VX SAYS THE SAME BUT I HAVE HAD THE CAR THREE MONTHS NOW AND NO FIX (AND NO FIX IN SIGHT IT SEEMS). ALSO, FUEL GAUGE WOULD NOT REGISTER AS FULL. A PART FOR THIS ISSUE HAS BEEN ORDERED AND IS IN. IT WILL BE INSTALLED IN A FEW DAYS AND HOPEFULLY ADDRESSES THIS PROBLEM ALTHOUGH OTHER CONSUMERS HAVE POSTED THAT THIS DOESN'T ALWAYS WORK. LASTLY, MY AIR CONDITIONER BLOWS WARM AIR UNLESS YOU TURN THE DIAL COMPLETELY TO MAX. ANY ADJUSTMENT BACKWARD FEELS LIKE THE HEATER IS ON. WHEN I TURN OFF THE AC AND PUT ON THE FAN WITH VENTS OPEN WANTING TO GET FRESH AIR (55 DEGREES OUT), AIR WARMER THAN OUTSIDE IS BLOWING IN. IT'S DIFFICULT TO ADJUST THE INTERIOR TEMPERATURE WHEN YOU HAVE EITHER ICE COLD OR HEAT AND ARE HESITANT TO MESS WITH THE WINDOWS!!! *TR

Reported
Sep 2012
Incident date
Jul 2012
Mileage
Not provided
Outcome flags
None reported
Open ODI 10477481 at NHTSA →

This page shows the latest 50 reports to keep it usable. The count above includes every complaint NHTSA has returned for this model year.

Recalls(7)

Open a recall to read what NHTSA says is wrong, what can happen, and how it gets fixed. Check the VIN and remedy eligibility with a dealer; federal no-charge requirements have an age limit, though a manufacturer may offer more coverage.

Tires · 12V331000Details +

VOLKSWAGEN IS RECALLING CERTAIN MODEL YEAR 2012 BEETLE VEHICLES. SOME VEHICLES MAY BE EQUIPPED WITH SUMMER TIRES THAT FAIL TO COMPLY WITH FEDERAL MOTOR VEHICLE SAFETY STANDARDS 110 "TIRE SELECTION AND RIMS" AND 139 "NEW PNEUMATIC TIRES FOR LIGHT VEHICLES."

Risk: DUE TO AN ERROR AT THE FACTORY, THE AFFECTED VEHICLES WERE PRODUCED WITH SUMMER TIRES THAT ARE POSSIBLY NOT IN COMPLIANCE WITH FEDERAL MOTOR VEHICLE SAFETY STANDARDS 110 "TIRE SELECTION & RIMS" AND 139 "NEW PNEUMATIC TIRES FOR LIGHT VEHICLES." IN ADDITION, CUSTOMERS MAY BE UNAWARE THAT THEIR VEHICLE IS EQUIPPED WITH SUMMER PERFORMANCE TIRES. SUMMER TIRES HAVE DIFFERENT GRIP AND PERFORMANCE CHARACTERISTICS. THESE ISSUES MAY LEAD TO AN INCREASED RISK OF A CRASH.

Remedy: VOLKSWAGEN WILL NOTIFY OWNERS, AND REPLACE THE NONCOMPLIANT TIRES, FREE OF CHARGE. THE SAFETY RECALL BEGAN ON SEPTEMBER 12, 2012. OWNERS MAY CONTACT VOLKSWAGEN AT 1-800-822-8987.

Open full NHTSA recall record →
Air Bags · 12V540000Details +

Volkswagen is recalling certain model year 2012-2013 Beetle vehicles, manufactured from February 2012, through August 2012, and equipped with leather sport seats. If the right front passenger seat gets wet, the occupant control module may not properly detect the presence of a child restraint installed in the seat.

Risk: If the control module does not detect a child seat installed, the airbag will not turn off. If the airbag does not turn off, in the event of a crash necessitating front airbag deployment, a child secured in the child seat may be at an increased risk for serious injury.

Remedy: Volkswagen will notify owners, and replace the control modules, free of charge. The recall is expected to begin during January 2013. Owners may contact Volkswagen at 1-800-822-8987.

Open full NHTSA recall record →
Suspension · 14V656000Details +

Volkswagen Group of America, Inc. (Volkswagen) is recalling certain model year 2011-2013 Jetta vehicles manufactured March 1, 2010, to November 30, 2012, and 2012-2013 Beetle vehicles manufactured March 1, 2011, to July 31, 2013. The durability of the rear trailing arms may be reduced in vehicles whose rear trailing arms have been previously deformed, such as a result of a rear or side-rear impact crash.

Risk: The reduced durability of the trailing arm may result in its sudden fracture, possibly causing loss of vehicle control and increasing the risk of a crash.

Remedy: Volkswagen will notify owners, and dealers will install a sheet metal inlay on the rear axle trailing arms designed to prevent a sudden loss of control in the event of trailing arm sudden fracture, free of charge. The recall began April 7, 2015. Owners may contact Volkswagen customer service at 1-800-893-5298.

Open full NHTSA recall record →
Electrical System · 19V615000Details +

Volkswagen Group of America, Inc. (Volkswagen) is recalling certain 2015-2019 GTI, 2015-2016 and 2018-2019 Golf, 2012-2019 Beetle and Beetle Convertible, 2017-2019 Golf SportWagen and 2011-2018 Jetta vehicles equipped with an automatic transmission, manual handbrake and keyless entry. A build-up of silicate on the shift lever micro switch contacts may enable the key to be removed from the ignition when the transmission shift lever is not in "Park."

Risk: Removing the key while the shift lever is in a position other than "Park" increases the risk of an unintended vehicle rollaway that may result in personal injury or a crash.

Remedy: Volkswagen will notify owners, and dealers will install an additional switch and circuit board, free of charge. The recall began November 19, 2019. Owners may contact Volkswagen customer service at 1-800-893-5298. Volkswagen's number for this recall is 37M2.

Open full NHTSA recall record →
Unknown Or Other · 19V679000Details +

Volkswagen Group of America, Inc. (Volkswagen) is recalling certain 2017 Volkswagen Passat, 2018 Tiguan LWB, 2007-2009 Jetta Sedan, 2011-2013, 2015 and 2019 Jetta, 2013 Jetta Hybrid, 2008-2009 Jetta Sportwagen, 2015 Golf Sportwagen, 2013 Golf, 2008-2010 and 2012-2013 Beetle and Beetle Convertible, 2008-2010 Beetle, and Beetle Convertible vehicles. Modifications made while the vehicles were in an internal evaluation period may cause the affected vehicles to not comply with all of the applicable regulatory requirements.

Risk: If the vehicles do not meet all regulatory requirements, there could be an increased risk of a crash, fire, or injury.

Remedy: Volkswagen will notify owners and repurchase the affected vehicles. The recall began November 6, 2019. Owners may contact Volkswagen customer service at 1-800-893-5298. Volkswagen's number for this recall is 01D7. Note: This recall is an expansion of NHTSA recall number 18V-329.

Open full NHTSA recall record →
Service Brakes · 20E064000Details +

Tenneco Automotive (Tenneco) is recalling certain Beck/Arnley Master Cylinders, part number 072-9831, sold as aftermarket or replacement parts for 2004-2018 Volkswagen Jetta, and 2012-2019 Volkswagen Beetle vehicles. The fluid seal crimp on the master cylinder may be insufficient, causing brake fluid to leak or the cylinder to come apart.

Risk: If there is a brake fluid leak, it can reduce braking ability, increasing the risk of a crash.

Remedy: Beck/Arnley will notify the distributors that sold the master cylinders and will work with the distributors to notify the end users. Affected master cylinders will be exchanged for a new master cylinder (part number 072-9990), free of charge. The recall began October 30, 2020. Owners may contact Tenneco customer service at 1-800-625-9319.

Open full NHTSA recall record →
Air Bags · 20V785000Details +

Volkswagen Group of America, Inc. (Volkswagen) is recalling certain 2012-2014 Volkswagen Beetle and Beetle Convertible vehicles. The driver's side air bag inflator may explode due to propellant degradation occurring after long-term exposure to high absolute humidity, high temperatures, and high temperature cycling.

Risk: An inflator explosion may result in sharp metal fragments striking the driver or other occupants resulting in serious injury or death.

Remedy: Volkswagen will notify owners, and dealers will replace the driver frontal air bag, free of charge. The recall began March 19, 2021. Owners may contact Volkswagen customer service at 1-800-893-5298. Volkswagen's number for this recall is 69BC.

Open full NHTSA recall record →

A campaign can apply to this model year without being incomplete on a specific vehicle. Check the VIN with NHTSA or a dealer to confirm whether a particular car needs repair.

Investigations

0 NHTSA investigations on record

No investigations are on record as of Jul 2026. An empty record is not a clean bill of health.

Crash-test ratings

2012 Volkswagen Beetle 2 DR FWD NHTSA source

Overall
Frontal
Side
Rollover

Source: NHTSA New Car Assessment Program (NCAP).

Fuel economy by trim

TrimEngineDrivetrainCityHwyCombined
Beetle2.5L 5-cylFront-Wheel Drive223125
Beetle2.5L 5-cylFront-Wheel Drive222925
Beetle2.0L 4-cylFront-Wheel Drive223025
Beetle2.0L 4-cylFront-Wheel Drive213024

EPA laboratory estimates by trim and engine. Actual mileage varies with driving, weather, load, and maintenance. EPA source.

Before you buy

Useful next checks

Federal records tell you about patterns. These checks can tell you more about the specific car in front of you.

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Compare the year-by-year record

Open another year for its own evidence-gated decision. TireKick does not crown a best year from raw complaint totals.

2012 Volkswagen Beetle: frequently asked

What does the complaint record show for the 2012 Volkswagen Beetle?

Owners filed 65 NHTSA complaints about the 2012 Volkswagen Beetle. This is raw owner-reported complaint volume with no production or exposure normalization, so it is not a reliability score or a best/worst-year ranking.

What are the most common problems on the 2012 Volkswagen Beetle?

The most-reported problem areas are Air Bags (18% of complaints) and electrical system (17%).

How many recalls does the 2012 Volkswagen Beetle have?

7 recalls have been issued that affect the 2012 Volkswagen Beetle, covering components such as tires. Check the VIN with NHTSA and ask a dealer to confirm remedy eligibility; federal no-charge requirements have an age limit, though manufacturers may offer more coverage.

What gas mileage does the 2012 Volkswagen Beetle get?

The EPA rates the 2012 Volkswagen Beetle between 24 and 25 mpg combined, depending on trim and drivetrain.